Word for the day "The Lord and Forgiveness"

Isaiah 1:18 (KJV) Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.This verse is a parenthesis in the midst of Isaiah’s prophecy of rebuke and warning.We might have expected for Isaiah to speak of how justified God’s judgment would be because of Israel’s sinful rebellion. But he also surprises us with this reasoning from the Lord: “if you turn to God in repentance, then all your past mistakes will be utterly washed away.” How do you respond when you are out of the will of God?This does not at first sound reasonable, or rational, at all. We all know that an apology cannot undo a wrong that has been committed. Saying one is sorry for adultery or murder does not undo the unfaithfulness or loss. So how then does repentance somehow make our blatant sins clean and upright before our God? In this Thanksgiving season, nothing is better than forgiveness in families, ministries, workplaces, relationships!The answer, the rationale, from the Lord is found later in this same prophecy. A suffering Servant would come, who would be “wounded for our transgressions;” our chastisement, our punishment would be put upon him, and with his wounds he would heal us, clean us (53:5).You see, there is nothing you can do to take away your past sins and guiltiness before a Holy God. But God has promised, when you turn to him in repentance, that your sin-stains will be washed completely away by the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. And of course being in right standing with God is the epitome of forgiveness!Point to ponder- Many times we attempt consciously and unconsciously to make other sacrifices for our sin, but the blood of Jesus’ sacrifice was and still is enough to make atonement for our sins. Read today’s word “Come now, says the Lord, to hear and consider this promise of forgiveness. Do not distance yourself, but come; do not delay, but come now.” I am a grateful believer today, not perfect but grateful!Would like to thank one of our subscribers Mr. Kenny Washington for his gift and contribution to the work and Ministry of Grace and Truth Leadership via Word Cup, partnership like yours Kenny genuinely helps to fund and support our Kingdom service around the world!Follow me on Twitter @Elder James Baker, as I endeavor to encourage and empower leaders of today and tomorrow!Kingdom Blessings,Pastor James Baker, Jr.Thank you for using the Word Cup devotionals brought to you through Grace and Truth Leadership on (Word press). We are a faith-based, donor-supported ministry. If you have been touched by these daily devotionals, and would like to make a monthly pledge or a special gift of any amount, please use the link below to give as the Lord leads. Thank you so much!http://www.tpgeneration.com/#!donate/cb8x